What part of the VIN number is the paint code?
As a car owner, knowing the details of your vehicle is crucial for maintenance and repairs. One important piece of information is the paint code, which can be found within the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This article will guide you on where to locate the paint code in your VIN and why it matters.
What is a VIN?
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code assigned to every vehicle. It serves as a fingerprint for your car, providing essential information about its make, model, year, and more. The VIN is typically 17 characters long and can be found in several locations on your vehicle, including the dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, and the engine block.
Where to Find the Paint Code in the VIN
The paint code is not directly embedded within the VIN itself. Instead, it is usually found on a separate label or sticker that is often located in the following places:
- On the driver's side door jamb
- Under the hood, on the front of the engine block
- Inside the trunk, on the spare tire cover
- In the owner's manual or service booklet
Each manufacturer has its own specific location for the paint code, so it's essential to check these areas carefully. The paint code is typically a combination of letters and numbers that indicates the exact color used on your vehicle.
Why is the Paint Code Important?
Knowing your car's paint code is vital for several reasons:
- Touch-ups and Repairs: If your vehicle gets scratched or damaged, having the correct paint code ensures that any touch-up paint matches perfectly.
- Resale Value: Maintaining the original color of your vehicle can help preserve its resale value.
- Customization: If you're considering repainting or customizing your vehicle, the paint code will help you find the right shade.
In summary, while the paint code is not part of the VIN itself, it is easily accessible on your vehicle. Understanding where to find it and its significance can help you maintain your car's appearance and value over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the paint code on my car?
Find your vehicle's paint code located on your vehicle's door jamb label. The exterior paint code will be labeled as EXT PNT followed by two characters. Note: Older vehicles may have more than two characters.
How do I find out the exact color of my car?
To find out what colour your car is, you need to track down your paint code. This can usually be found on a plate or sticker inside the driver's door or glovebox. See our diagram below for the best places to check according to your make and model.
How to match car paint without code?
Many paint companies and home improvement stores offer mobile apps to help match paint. Simply download the app to your phone, take a photo of the painted object or surface you want to match, upload it, and the app will provide the closest color match the brand has a.
Can I find the color code from a VIN number?
No, the VIN number does not include the paint code. The paint code is sometimes printed near the VIN number, although you may need to look for it separately. Common paint code locations include the driver's side door jamb, in the boot and under the bonnet.
What part of my VIN is the paint code?
Either way, check your door jamb. The VIN doesn't list the paint code.
Does the VIN number tell you the color?
No, your VIN number doesn't contain your car's paint code. Instead, this is a unique vehicle identifier assigned by the manufacturer which can be used to check a car's details.
Does VIN number tell you interior color?
Be aware that some manufacturers encode color information within the VIN. If that is the case with your car, you can search an online VIN decoding site for your vehicle, plug in the VIN, and extract the interior color code.
Where is the paint code normally located on a car?
All modern vehicles will have their paint code on the bodywork somewhere, most commonly located on the door jamb, door frame or door hinge.
Can you find the paint code by registration?
Find your paint code by registration
Most car owners can find their paint code on our website using their vehicle registration number. Just type it into the colour matched car paint box and click search. Your results will confirm the exact make, model, year and basic colour of your car - for example, black.
Where can I find the color of my car?
Car color codes are most easily found on your vehicle information sticker, usually located on your dash, in the trunk, or inside your door jamb.
